Field Test: Trail-worthy Tablets

Field Test: Trail-worthy Tablets

Tablets have become an essential tool for outdoor enthusiasts, whether it's for navigation, communication, or simply passing the time on a long hike. But not all tablets are created equal when it comes to ruggedness and performance in the great outdoors. That's why we set out to find the best trail-worthy tablets on the market, putting them through their paces in a variety of real-world scenarios.

Our field test began with a thorough evaluation of each tablet's build quality and durability. We wanted to know if these devices could withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including exposure to dust, water, and rough handling. We also paid close attention to the design features that make a tablet suitable for use on the trail, such as a bright, easy-to-read display and long battery life.

Once we had a good sense of each tablet's physical attributes, we turned our attention to its performance in the field. We tested the tablets' GPS capabilities, mapping apps, and overall responsiveness while on the move. We also evaluated their camera quality, as well as their ability to connect to external devices such as fitness trackers and satellite communication devices.

After weeks of extensive testing, we came away with a clear understanding of which tablets are truly trail-worthy. Here are our top picks, along with in-depth reviews of their features and performance.

1. Apple iPad Pro 12.9

The Apple iPad Pro 12.9 is a standout choice for outdoor enthusiasts who demand top-notch performance and reliability. Its sleek, slim design belies its rugged construction, which includes a tough aluminum chassis and a scratch-resistant display. The 12.9-inch Retina display is among the brightest and most vibrant we've seen on a tablet, making it easy to read even in direct sunlight.

The iPad Pro 12.9's A12Z Bionic chip delivers lightning-fast performance, whether you're running mapping apps, streaming video, or editing photos on the go. Its 12-megapixel camera captures stunning images and 4K video, while its four-speaker audio system provides immersive sound for watching movies or listening to music. The tablet's 10-hour battery life ensures it will keep up with you all day long, and its support for Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard make it a versatile tool for work and play.

2. Samsung Galaxy Tab S7

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 is another top contender for trail-worthy tablets, offering a winning combination of durability and performance. Its sleek, slim design is complemented by a rugged aluminum body and a tough Gorilla Glass display that's resistant to scratches and cracks. The 11-inch Super AMOLED screen is one of the brightest and most colorful we've seen on a tablet, making it a joy to use in any lighting conditions.

The Tab S7's Snapdragon 865 Plus processor delivers snappy performance, whether you're navigating with GPS, multitasking with multiple apps, or gaming on the go. Its 13-megapixel main camera and 8-megapixel front camera produce sharp, vibrant photos and videos, while its quad-speaker audio system provides rich, immersive sound. The tablet's 8,000mAh battery offers all-day power, and its support for the S Pen and Book Cover Keyboard make it a versatile tool for productivity and creativity.

3. Microsoft Surface Pro 7

The Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is a rugged, versatile tablet that's well-suited for outdoor use. Its magnesium body and tough Corning Gorilla Glass display are built to withstand the bumps and knocks of the trail, while its kickstand and Type Cover keyboard provide a stable, comfortable platform for working and typing on the go. The 12.3-inch PixelSense display is bright and clear, with support for the Surface Pen for precise sketching and note-taking.

The Surface Pro 7's 10th Gen Intel Core processors deliver excellent performance, whether you're running mapping apps, editing documents, or streaming video on the trail. Its 8-megapixel rear camera and 5-megapixel front camera capture sharp, detailed images and videos, while its dual far-field studio mics and Dolby Audio speakers provide clear, immersive sound. The tablet's 10.5-hour battery life ensures it will keep up with you all day long, and its support for USB-C and USB-A ports makes it easy to connect to external devices and accessories.

4. Lenovo Tab M10 Plus

The Lenovo Tab M10 Plus is a budget-friendly option for outdoor enthusiasts who want a rugged, reliable tablet without breaking the bank. Its metal body and tough glass display are built to withstand the elements, while its slim, lightweight design makes it easy to carry on the trail. The 10.3-inch FHD display is bright and clear, with support for the optional Lenovo Precision Pen for sketching and note-taking.

The Tab M10 Plus's MediaTek Helio P22T processor delivers smooth performance, whether you're navigating with GPS, browsing the web, or playing games on the go. Its 8-megapixel rear camera and 5-megapixel front camera capture decent photos and videos, while its dual speakers with Dolby Atmos provide clear, immersive sound. The tablet's 7,000mAh battery offers all-day power, and its support for the optional charging dock and Bluetooth keyboard make it a versatile tool for work and play.

In conclusion, the Apple iPad Pro 12.9, Samsung Galaxy Tab S7, Microsoft Surface Pro 7, and Lenovo Tab M10 Plus are all top contenders for trail-worthy tablets, offering a winning combination of durability, performance, and versatility. Whether you're a hiker, camper, or backpacker, these tablets are well-suited for outdoor use, with rugged construction, bright displays, long battery life, and support for a variety of accessories. No matter which tablet you choose, you can feel confident that it will keep up with you on the trail, providing reliable performance and entertainment wherever your adventures take you.